64
a
b
c
d
Suspension
Glossary
Suspension fork
(a+b)
Bicycle fork absorbing and damping shocks through
moving components. The most common among these
forks are the telescopic suspension forks. What is des-
ignated as stanchion tubes are the thinner tubes press
fitted or screwed to the fork crown of a telescopic fork.
What is designated as lower leg are the lower tubes in
which the stanchion tubes slide in.
Rear shock
The rear shock is the element combining the spring as
well as the damping in the rear frame of a full suspen-
sion bike. Often the rear shock is also designated as
shock absorber.
Spring rate or hardness
The force that is required to compress the spring by a
certain suspension travel – measured in Newton per
millimeter (N/mm) or pound per inch (lbs/in). A higher
spring rate means a higher force requirement per unit of
travel. In air spring elements this corresponds to a higher
pressure.
Spring preload
In the case of the widespread air spring systems, the air
pressure in the fork is crucial for the spring rate and the
spring preload. Observe the recommendations of the
manufacturers. Within a certain range a preload can be
applied to the coil springs. Then the suspension only re-
acts when a greater load is applied. However, the spring
rates are not changed as a result. Heavy riders cannot
compensate a too low spring rate with a higher preload.
Negative suspension travel (“sag”)
(c)
The suspension travel that is taken up by the rear struc-
ture or the fork when the rider takes up his or her usual
riding position at a standstill. This is usually specified as
a percentage of the overall suspension travel.
Rebound damping
In most cases a red adjusting knob.
Delays or brakes the rebound. Prevents bike bobbing.
Lockout
(d)
In most cases a lever on the suspension element or the
handlebars.
A device to block the fork or the rear shock so that the
suspension element does not cause bob when riding on
tarred roads or smooth surfaces. Not to be used off road.
Platform damping
Increases the (low speed) compression damping rate
and suppresses bobbing. As opposed to the lockout
function, the suspension is not blocked completely.
Summary of Contents for City Bikes
Page 113: ...MERIDA com ...
